The 4870 beats the other three cards based on Core Clock and Stream Processors which are the key factors when looking at GPU's. I was looking at the 4870's myself, but was able to snag a 4890 for about the same price as one.
They're all good cards and are at different price points. So the question is: How much do you want to spend? Pick the amount and go with the one that fits your budget.
The 4870 beats the other three cards based on Core Clock and Stream Processors which are the key factors when looking at GPU's. I was looking at the 4870's myself, but was able to snag a 4890 for about the same price as one.
They're all good cards and are at different price points. So the question is: How much do you want to spend? Pick the amount and go with the one that fits your budget.
Nvidia and ATI are not at all the same architecture. You cannot compare core clocks, shaders, etc. It means absolutely nothing that a 4870 has a faster core clock than a 260. Don't spread BS, it confuses people who may not know better. If you want a direct comparison google some benchmarks..
Dependign on your resolution I would go with a 4870/260 (almost the same performance, price should be the key here) for 1920*1200 or a 4850 for 1680*1050.
Message edited by daedalus685 on 07-06-2009 at 08:06:27 PM
You don't need to google benchmarks, just look at the ones here on THD. Pick the one that meets your needs given the games you play as different cards are better for different games. Remember that 30 fps is playable and ignore higher rates over 60 fps as it provides not noticeable difference. Just consider the resolution you are using now - but also consider whether you might increase that in the future or that later versions of games might require more power.
Once you select a graphics engine, go to an online site like Newegg and find a couple with a good price. Then google some reviews on the cards you select to look at the different cards. Most manufacturer's cards are similar in performance for the same graphics engine, although they may offer a few different features, minor overclocking, or warranty periods. Price really becomes a primary consideration but it is a good idea to look at a few reviews to make sure you did not select a dog - there are few - with some power, noise, or other issues. You might see something in one that is a positive or negative item particularly meaningful to you that a general recommendation would not consider. It really does not take long and you will feel a lot better about your selection.
Message edited by rockyjohn on 07-06-2009 at 08:31:13 PM
I know I have a 17 inch monitor right now.. but I will be upgrading soon..
and i have a blue ray media center downstairs hooked up to a 52" Sony Bravia XBR 1080p TV that i might plug this card into occasionally to awe my friends xD
So im definatley going with that card..
PS: This wasnt a 5 minute decision... ive been searching the net/newegg for 2 months... changed my mind like 19 times..